--First-Time Homebuyer Program Helps Wilson Family Achieve the American Dream--

WILSON, KS – In honor of National Homeownership Month, officials from Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC), the City of Wilson, Smoky Hill Development Corporation and Citizens State Bank celebrated First-Time Homebuyers Darcy Hubka and Dustin Vopat’s entry into the homeownership market. During a ceremony this week in Wilson, officials presented the young parents with a proclamation signed by Governor Sam Brownback.

“Governor Brownback recognizes the important role homeownership plays in creating healthy communities, fostering prosperity for families and strengthening the economy,” said Dennis L. Mesa, KHRC’s Executive Director. “At Kansas Housing, we know a good home makes a good neighborhood, and a good neighborhood makes a stronger community,” said Mesa.

Presenting Darcy with a bouquet of Sunflowers, the official state flower of Kansas, Wilson Mayor David Criswell said workforce housing is in high demand throughout the state. “All communities, but especially those in rural areas, appreciate the tools and resources, such as the First Time Home Buyer Program, that make affordable homes possible for hard working families,” said Criswell.

Darcy, a 24-year-old student at Fort Hays State University and mom to eight-month old Bailey, is set to graduate next year with her degree Business Administration. She and fiancé Dustin looked for over two years to buy a house, before finding their new home in Wilson.

When the couple found out about the First Time Homebuyer Program, they were thrilled. “This program turned our dream of buying a home into reality,” said Hubka. “We love living in Wilson. It’s a safe place for your kids to play. Everyone’s nice and everyone looks out for everyone else.”
 

Dustin, an auto body/restoration worker that commutes to nearby Russell, said he and Darcy are especially grateful to Debbie Kootz of Citizens State Bank. “Debbie went the extra mile to ensure the home buying process was a smooth one, said Vopat. “Our friends told us she was the best and that she is! We thank Debbie and everyone else involved for making this possible,” added Vopat.

Over the past year, KHRC’s First Time Homebuyer Program has helped 223 Kansas families purchase homes in 42 counties. The program has provided $3.2 million in down payment assistance, leveraging nearly $17 million in first mortgage funds. The average sales price was $91,435. The average down payment assistance was $14,305.

Dustin, an auto body/restoration worker that commutes to nearby Russell, said he and Darcy are especially grateful to Debbie Kootz of Citizens State Bank. “Debbie went the extra mile to ensure the home buying process was a smooth one, said Vopat. “Our friends told us she was the best and that she is! We thank Debbie and everyone else involved for making this possible,” added Vopat.

Over the past year, KHRC’s First Time Homebuyer Program has helped 223 Kansas families purchase homes in 42 counties. The program has provided $3.2 million in down payment assistance, leveraging nearly $17 million in first mortgage funds. The average sales price was $91,435. The average down payment assistance was $14,305.

Income-eligible households that have not owned a home in the past three years may apply for the First Time Homebuyer Program. Approved applicants receive a soft loan that is forgiven over time. The loan may range from 15 to 20 percent of the home's purchase price, depending on the buyer's amount of income. Buyers are required to make a minimum investment of two percent of the sale price.